June 21, 2024

 

 

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/ Vancouver, B.C. – June 21, 2024) Today, as we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) reflects upon the critical work done by Indigenous peoples worldwide and by First Nations people in British Columbia. As we celebrate advancements in the implementation of our inherent title and rights, there is an extreme amount of work that still needs to be done.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, UBCIC President, stated, “We are entering a time of change and as Indigenous people, it is hugely important that we strive for representation fully and meaningfully within government. I encourage all Indigenous people across the country and at home in B.C. to vote in the upcoming elections. I also note that it has now been 5 years since the release of the Final Report to the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and minimal progress has been made. Today we call for the urgent implementation of the Calls for Justice.”

 

Chief Don Tom, Vice President of UBCIC, stated, “We share the strength and struggle of Indigenous peoples around the world. As First Nations in B.C., we have a unique opportunity to leverage both the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Provincial Declaration Act. We will continue to participate in legislative change while upholding and advancing our own laws and legal orders.”

 

Chief Marilyn Slett, UBCIC Secretary-Treasurer, stated, “Keeping in line with the spirit and intent of the UN Declaration and the alignment of laws required by both the provincial and federal governments, we must continue to hold all levels of government and likeminded organizations accountable to ensure that legislation, such as the Heritage Conservation Act is amended to advance First Nations interests and reflect our Nations’ unique customs, histories, and laws. While we are moving in the right direction, further work is neccesary to advance our collective goals and we will continue push for progress to ensure meaningful outcomes for First Nations.”

 

Today, the UBCIC continues to honour Indigenous people, history, and accomplishments. We encourage everyone to take some time to learn about Indigenous cultures, particularly in the territory you live in, and to celebrate the strength of Indigenous peoples.

 

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Media inquiries:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President, 250-490-5314

Chief Don Tom, Vice-President, 604-290-6083

Chief Marilyn Slett, Secretary-Treasurer, 250-957-7721

 

 

For more information, please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca